The FA Cup First Round weekend is a significant event for lower league teams hoping to reach the third round and face off against bigger clubs. This weekend, Carlisle United takes on Wigan Athletic for a spot in the Second Round. Will our prediction hint at a surprise win for the Blues, or will the Latics secure the victory?
Carlisle has struggled this season, losing 10 of their 14 matches and winning only two, leaving them 23rd in the table and fighting to avoid relegation. They are winless in seven games, recently falling 3-1 to Walsall and 1-0 at home to Cheltenham.
Wigan sits 19th in League One and has a solid defense, conceding only 11 goals in 13 matches, fewer than all but Wrexham. However, scoring has been an issue, with just 12 goals. After a rocky start, losing three of their first four, they’ve improved, losing only two of their last nine, including four 0-0 draws. They prepared for this match with a 2-2 draw at Blackpool last weekend.